Preserving the Legacy of Richardson Dilworth

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A politician and liberal reformer, Richardson Dilworth served as mayor of Philadelphia from 1956-1962. His vision for the city shaped much of what we recognize about Philadelphia today: Independence Mall, Society Hill, SEPTA, and the public park system. With the support of political ally and personal friend Joseph Clark, he denounced municipal corruption, supported civil rights, fought segregation in private schools, rallied for public housing, and restored much of the city’s history as part of an urban renewal program that would bring the City of Brotherly Love back to life. This exhibit explores and celebrates his life, his service, and his legacy to Philadelphia.

The images featured in this exhibit are from the collections of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.